10 Feb 2012

Latvala quickest at start of Sweden Rally

5:19 am on 10 February 2012

Finland's Jari-Matti Latvala clocked the fastest time in his Ford during the inaugural qualifying stage ahead of the Rally of Sweden.

Latvala, winner in Sweden in 2008, finished ahead of compatriot Mikko Hirvonen, Citroen's latest recruit and winner of the last two editions of this event raced on snow and ice.

The result means that Latvala can choose where he can start the first full day of racing at Rally Sweden tonight, as Ford bid to win their sixth consecutive title there.

Eight-time world champion Sebastien Loeb has only won once in Sweden, in 2004 the year of his first world title success.